“Through generous donations, tireless efforts and dedicated leadership on numerous boards and committees, Richard demonstrated an unwavering commitment to make a difference. His remarkable philanthropic contributions have enabled numerous projects and initiatives that have enriched our community and provided resources and opportunities for growth and development.”
–Gene Gargaro, lawyer, confidant and lifelong friend
Philanthropy
Richard Manoogian didn’t just lead the Company his father started, he set out to continue his father’s heritage of giving back. Masco’s success enabled Richard to devote a lifetime of effort and millions of dollars to organizations across the world. Throughout his life, he contributed millions of dollars to charitable, religious, cultural and educational causes. His spirit of charity and concern, extended to many charitable causes—too many to mention, from prestigious universities and museums to local schools, hospitals and other organizations.
Chairman
Mr. Manoogian was Chairman of the Alex and Marie Manoogian Foundation and Chairman of the Richard and Jane Manoogian Foundation. Established in 1984, the Richard and Jane Manoogian Foundation provided significant funding primarily for art museums. The Foundation also provided funding for education, health care, human services, and community development.
The School
Following in the footsteps of his father, Alex Manoogian, Richard supported a number of projects in Armenia, advancing Armenian vocational, educational and cultural activities. In 2022, the Manoogian legacy of philanthropy to the Armenian communities continued with Richard as the benefactor of a 4,000 square foot Manoogian STEAM Center, a state-of-the-art, $2 million facility at the AGBU Alex & Marie Manoogian School in Southfield, Michigan.
The Manoogian name is widely known for the stately home Richard grew up in on the Detroit River. In 1965, Richard’s father, Alex, gave the mansion to the City of Detroit to use as the official mayoral residence. It was the family’s way of giving thanks to Detroit.
Masco Philanthropy
Masco’s commitment to corporate citizenship began with the generosity of our founder, Alex Manoogian. When he arrived in America in 1920 with only $50 to his name, he promised himself that if he found success in this country, he would ensure others had the same opportunities to grow and thrive. When Richard, Alex’s son, took over the leadership of Masco, he embedded a culture of giving back at Masco. Over the years, Masco has built a reputation as a good corporate citizen, donating millions of dollars annually to support the communities where its employees live, work and do business.